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Raymond E. Adams |
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Engagements: • World War II (1941 - 1945) |
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Biography: | ||||
Raymond E. Adams On 25 February 1945, Sergeant Raymond E. Adams was serving with Company F, 374th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, in the European Theater of Operations. On that day, SGT Adams was in action with his unit against enemy forces at Spicheren Heights, France. After taking strategic high ground, SGT Adams' squad, occupying the platoon's forward position, was subjected to machine gun fire that supported a 2-company enemy counterattack. SGT Adams crossed 50 yards of open terrain, firing and maneuvering as he advanced. Throwing a hand grenade into the machine gun position, he charged with fixed bayonet, killing the 3-man crew. Quickly turning the captured gun on the advancing troops, he inflicted many casualties and disorganized the attack. After expending all ammunition, he destroyed the gun and led his squad against the enemy. His courageous actions enabled his platoon to break the counterattack and hold its vital objective. SGT Adams' extraordinary heroism earned him the U.S. Army's second highest award for valor, the Distinguished Service Cross. Medals, Awards and Badges Distinguished Service Cross Distinguished Service Cross Citation The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Raymond E. Adams, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 374th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 February 1945, at Spicheren Heights, France. After taking strategic high ground, Sergeant Adams' squad, occupying the platoon's forward position, was subjected to machine gun fire which supported a two-company enemy counterattack. Sergeant Adams immediately crossed fifty yards of open terrain, firing and maneuvering as he advanced. Throwing a hand grenade into the machine gun position, he charged with fixed bayonet, killing the three-man crew. Quickly turning the captured gun on the advancing troops, he inflicted many casualties and disorganized the attack, After expending all ammunition, he destroyed the gun and led his squad against the enemy. His courageous action enabled his platoon to break the counterattack and hold its vital objective. Sergeant Adams' intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 70th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. General Orders: Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 438 (August 25, 1945) |
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Honoree ID: 311512 | Created by: MHOH |